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Polish finance minister urges EU resolve amid U.S. tariff threats, prefers de-escalation

21.01.2026 13:00
Polish Finance Minister Andrzej Domański said Wednesday that the European Union must respond firmly to U.S. threats of punitive tariffs, though easing tensions would be the preferred path.
People queue ahead of a plenary session featuring U.S. President Donald Trump during the 56th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, 21 January 2026. The meeting under the topic A Spirit of Dialogue brings together entrepreneurs, scientists, and corporate and political leaders in Davos and takes place from 19 to 2
People queue ahead of a plenary session featuring U.S. President Donald Trump during the 56th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, 21 January 2026. The meeting under the topic 'A Spirit of Dialogue' brings together entrepreneurs, scientists, and corporate and political leaders in Davos and takes place from 19 to 2Photo: EPA/GIAN EHRENZELLER

“De-escalation is obviously the preferred route,” Domański told CNBC during the World Economic Forum in Davos. “There is no need to escalate this further, but at the same time, the European response must be decisive—and I repeat: no one will divide us.”

Domański is in Davos to discuss the competitiveness of the European economy and global economic challenges, according to Poland’s Finance Ministry. His agenda includes meetings with political leaders, business executives, and investors. The ministry emphasized that “Poland’s participation in G20 adds particular weight to these talks.”

On Saturday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced he would impose 10% tariffs starting Feb. 1, 2026, on eight European countries—Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Finland, and the United Kingdom—in response to their stance on his claim over Greenland, a mineral-rich Danish territory. Trump said the U.S. needs to take control of the island and has not ruled out using force.

This year’s World Economic Forum, the 56th edition, is being held under the theme “Spirit of Dialogue” and runs through Jan. 23. The Davos summit brings together political leaders, CEOs, academics, and cultural figures from around the world.

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Source: PAP